I still remember watching the 2018 NBA season unfold with particular interest in the rookie class—there was something special brewing that year. The race for Rookie of the Year wasn't just about stats; it was about impact, resilience, and frankly, who could handle the pressure of the spotlight. When Ben Simmons ultimately took home the award, it wasn't surprising to those of us who'd followed his journey closely, but the path he carved was anything but straightforward.
Let me take you back to that season. Simmons, drafted first overall by the Philadelphia 76ers in 2016, had missed his entire first year due to a foot injury. So when he finally stepped onto the court in 2017-2018, the expectations were sky-high—and honestly, a bit unfair. People questioned whether he could live up to the hype after such a long layoff. But what impressed me most wasn't just his physical gifts; it was his mental toughness. He averaged 15.8 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game—numbers that put him in rare company for a debut season. Only Oscar Robertson and Magic Johnson had previously posted similar all-around stats as rookies, which tells you something about the caliber of player we were witnessing.
I've always believed that rookies face two battles: one on the court, and another in the media. Simmons’ case was no different. Early in the season, when he struggled with turnovers or the Sixers lost a few close games, critics piled on. That's where Grbic’s advice—though aimed at a different sport—resonates deeply. He once said, "My advice to them always, especially if some of them are not playing good [...] is not to read the articles in the newspapers, with all due respect for you guys, especially not to go on the comment session because usually there are people who don't understand what we are doing." I think Simmons embodied this mindset. He didn't get bogged down by the noise; instead, he focused on refining his game. His ability to facilitate the offense, defend multiple positions, and lead fast breaks at 6'10" was something we hadn't seen since LeBron—and yeah, I'll say it, maybe even more unique given his size.
What many casual observers missed was how Simmons elevated his team. The Sixers won 52 games that season, a 14-game improvement from the year before, and much of that credit goes to his playmaking. He wasn't just stuffing stat sheets; he was making everyone around him better. Joel Embiid’s efficiency improved, JJ Redick got cleaner looks, and the team's pace transformed. I recall one game against the Lakers where Simmons nearly notched a triple-double without forcing a single shot—that's maturity you don't often see in rookies.
Of course, Donovan Mitchell had a phenomenal year too, averaging around 20.5 points per game and leading the Jazz to a playoff berth. Some argued he deserved the award more because he was a "true rookie" and carried a heavier scoring load. But here's my take: Rookie of the Year isn't just about who scores the most; it's about overall impact. Simmons’ versatility and court vision were transformative. He recorded 12 triple-doubles that season—the most by a rookie since Robertson—and became the first rookie since 1960 to post 1,200 points, 600 rebounds, and 600 assists. Those aren't just numbers; they're statements.
Looking back, Simmons’ achievement wasn't just about talent; it was about mindset. In a league where social media and hot takes can derail young players, he stayed focused on what mattered. Grbic’s words ring true here—sometimes, the best way to succeed is to tune out the distractions and trust your process. Simmons did exactly that, and it paid off with one of the most memorable rookie campaigns in recent history.